Effectiveness of the Plot Ratio Transfer Pilot Scheme for Urban Renewal in Hong Kong — The Case of Yau Ma Tei
NG Ka Yui
吳珈叡
BSc (Hons) in Surveying
I am NG Ka Yui Iris, a final-year General Practice Surveying student. Throughout my studies, I have built a solid foundation in property valuation, real estate investment, and finance. I am grateful for these fruitful learning experiences that strengthened my professional competence, time management, and analytical skills. I aspire to become a professional General Practice Surveyor and look forward to growing in this field.
This study assesses the effectiveness of the Plot Ratio Transfer Pilot Scheme (PRTPS) in addressing urban decay in Hong Kong, using Yau Ma Tei as a case study. The acceleration of urban decay emphasizes the urgency of effective renewal tools. This study investigates whether PRTPS can support sustainable urban renewal before its potential citywide expansion.
A computer-based simulation model in ArcGIS Pro was developed to compare baseline redevelopment with redevelopment incorporating PRTPS, which allows surplus plot ratio transfer subject to a 30% cap on receiving sites. Performance was evaluated across economic, social, environmental, and governance dimensions.
Simulation results show that PRTPS outperforms the baseline by unlocking low-potential sites, improving resource utilisation, and reducing distance to community facilities. Qualitative interviews with three surveyors validate these findings, indicating PRTPS can attract investment and modestly improve quality of life. However, interviewees noted that key constraints, including insufficient incentives and the absence of a visible showcase limit market confidence. Although constraints were identified, all interviewees held positive viewpoints on addressing urban decay. The study concludes that PRTPS offers a balanced alternative to conventional renewal, but its success would depends on stronger incentives, clearer guidelines, and fair benefit distribution.
Tutor: Elvis Lau